INDIA

Feedback from the Trade on Their Plans and Interest in the USA Pear Season:

USA pear demand has been reproted to be good. Green Anjou Pears from USA is available in the major fresh fruit markets in India. Arrival quality is excellent. The imported pear market in India is dominated by pears from South Africa. Overall fruit market in India during this reporting period has been slow.

Expectations for Any Freight or Logistics Challenges:

Importers have mnentioned about high freight costs from the US.

Opportunities in Your Market for Specific Varieties, Sizes, and Grades:

New season South African pears will be available in the market from February, Before that importers see good opportuinities for USA pears.

Update on the Competition in the Market:

There is competition from South African pears. 2025 season crop is still in the market and India has now become a nearly 52 week market for South African pears. Chilean pears are also available in limited volume and more product is expected in the coming weeks.

Political or Economic Issues Impacting Imports, Retail, or Consumer Behavior:

The proposed US India trade deal has been in the discussions since February, 2025. While media reports suggest a breakthrough in the coming weeks, there is no official word on this. During this reporting period, India signed Freee Trade Agreement with New Zealand. One of the products from New Zealand that will become duty free in 7 years is pears.

Other Brief Comments:

USA pears have a made a good comeback in to India in 2025. This momentum needs to be maintained in the seasons ahead. Seasonwide competition will be there from South Africa and US pear shippers and suppliers will have to establish a niche for themselves. Any reduction in duties because of a US India trade deal will be greatly benefecial.